Jeffrey Donaldson’s letter to alleged victim had ‘nothing to do’ with abuse claims, trial hears
The trial of Jeffrey Donaldson continues as his barrister argues that a letter he sent to the alleged victim is unrelated to the abuse claims. The complainant maintains that the letter suggests guilt and is an apology for past actions. Donaldson faces multiple charges, including rape, and both he and his wife deny the allegations.
- ▪Jeffrey Donaldson is accused of 18 charges, including one count of rape, spanning from 1985 to 2008.
- ▪His barrister claims that a letter sent to the alleged victim had 'nothing to do' with the abuse allegations.
- ▪The complainant asserts that the letter implies guilt and is an apology for Donaldson's actions over the years.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at Newry crown court on Friday. Photograph: Liam McBurney/PAView image in fullscreenJeffrey Donaldson arrives at Newry crown court on Friday. Photograph: Liam McBurney/PANorthern IrelandJeffrey Donaldson’s letter to alleged victim had ‘nothing to do’ with abuse claims, trial hearsFormer DUP leader’s barrister said the woman was mistaken in linking the letter to his alleged sex offencesRory Carroll Ireland correspondentFri 29 May 2026 13.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleJeffrey Donaldson told a woman who has accused him of sexual assault that he regretted inflicting “hurt, pain and distress” but his comments were not related to the allegations, a court has heard.A lawyer for the former MP and Democratic Unionist party leader told Newry crown court on Friday…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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